Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

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Social drivers associated with consumer apparel purchases in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania
(Journal of Co-operative and Business Studies (JCBS), 2026) Kereth, Gudila A.; Oigo, Elizabeth Bosibori; Isika, Juliet Kaindi; Gausa, Solomon; Bakker-Edoh, Dymphna
This study examined the extent to which consumers purchase locally made versus imported apparel and investigated the influence of social drivers (i.e., family members, reference groups, social status, traditional media, social media, celebrities, and brand loyalty) on consumers’ purchasing decisions regarding imported and locally made apparel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was employed to investigate the phenomenon. Purposive sampling was used to select apparel shopping outlets, while systematic sampling was used to select consumers aged 18 years and above to complete the questionnaire through interviews, with a response rate of 99.53%. Chi-square goodness-of-fit tests were used to determine whether observed frequencies of responses to binary categorical questions (i.e., choosing either locally made apparel or imported apparel). Proportional averages ranging from 1 to 0.001 were used to grade respondents’ opinions. Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship of apparel choice with social drivers. The findings indicated that consumers purchased imported apparel more frequently (88.1%) than locally made apparel. The results further revealed that social media (β = 1.102, p = 0.003), social status (β = 0.738, p = 0.013), and brand loyalty (β = 3.454, p < 0.001) significantly influenced apparel purchasing decisions. The study concludes that apparel dealers should consider the roles of social media, social status, and brand loyalty when developing marketing strategies to better align with consumers’ interests and preferences. The study also recommends that marketers tailor their strategies to consumer preferences and that future research examine social drivers of apparel consumption in other cities across Tanzania to better understand purchasing patterns.
Consumption of protect and risk food groups for non-communicable diseases among women of reproductive age in rural areas of Morogoro, Tanzania
(PLOS ONE, 2025-02-25) Mwanri, Akwilina Wendelin; Mishili, Fulgence; Assenga, Theresia; Suleiman, Rashid; Mwaseba, Dismas; Msolla, Susan Nchimbi
Malnutrition has been persistently high in Tanzania, especially in the rural areas. Although some interventions have been implemented to reduce the rate of undernutrition, improve- ment is much slower than expected. Moreover, the prevalence of overweight and obe- sity among women of reproductive age has been on the increase. Changes in lifestyles specifically in eating habits may contribute to the observed increase trend in the preva- lence of overweight and obesity. However, there are limited studies that have assessed diet quality for women. Hence, this study aimed to assess the consumption of protective and risk food groups for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in rural areas of the Moro- goro region, Tanzania. The cross-sectional study involved 512 randomly selected women of reproductive age in Mvomero district. All mothers or caretakers with children of age 6–23 months who resided in the area for over three months were eligible to participate. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic data and the Global Diet Quality Questionnaire was used to collect dietary intake data for women. A multivariate regression model was used to identify factors associated with consumption of diversified diets, NCD-protect, and NCD-risk food group scores. The results show that about 42% of the women had no formal education and about one in three women own a mobile phone. About 70% consumed vegetables while 33% consumed deep fried foods. Only 34% of the women met the minimum diet diversity (MDD-W) of five or more food groups. The mean NCD-protect score was 2.8 ± 1.4 and the NCD-risk score was 0.77 ± 0.97. Household income was positively associated with an increase in both protect scores and NCD-risk. Mobile phone ownership was positively associated with NCD-risk. Other factors such as age and self-employment in agriculture were positively associated NCD-protect while the number of children was negatively associated with NCD-protect score. Rural communities should be educated on the importance of food diversification starting from production to consumption and the need for multiple sources of income to increase purchasing power of the household while considering proper food choices to avoid the risk of NCDs. The Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders should support and promote production of bio-fortified crops and keeping small animals. The Ministry of Education should ensure that school children are aware of the NCD-risk foods and make available healthier food choices around the school environment.
Potentials and limitations of a food group-based algorithm to assess dietary nutrient intake of women in rural areas in Tanzania
(International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 2024-03) Eleraky, Laila; Stuetz, Wolfgang; Rybak, Constance; Frank, Jan; Biesalski, Hans Konrad; Mbwana, Hadijah; Kinabo, Joyce; Lambert, Christine
The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of nutrient intake assessment with the food group-based algorithm “Calculator of Inadequate Micronutrient Intake” (CIMI) in comparison to the established nutrition software NutriSurvey. Using Food Frequency questionnaires and 24-h dietary recalls of 1010 women from two rural districts in Tanzania, 23 relevant typical Tanzanian food groups were identified and subsequently the dietary protocols assessed via CIMI algorithm were compared by bivariate correlations and Bland-Altman analysis with the results of the NutriSurvey software (reference) and were set in relation to blood biomarkers of 666 participants. CIMI and NutriSurvey calculations regarding macro- and micronutrient intakes were similar. The Bland-Altman analyses and correlation coefficients of energy (0.931), protein (0.898), iron (0.775) and zinc (0.838) confirm the agreement of both calculations. The food group based CIMI algorithm is a practical tool to identify the inadequacy of macro- and micronutrient intake at population level.
Productive and reproductive roles of women and associated factors on the nutritional status of children in Kilindi district, Tanzania
(Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences, 2024) Hillary, Mtagulwa Mzee; Mbwana, Hadijah Ally
Background: The prevalence of stunting can be caused or lessened by the nature of women's productive and reproductive roles. The objective of this study was to examine the risk factors of child stunting based on the productive and reproductive roles of women among crop farmers and agro-pastoralists in Kilindi District. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 209 crop farmers and 136 agro-pastoralist women with children aged 6–23 months was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information on household demographics; time allocated for reproductive roles, women's involvement in maize farming and sale of maize produce. Anthropometric measurements were taken to determine the nutritional status of children. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 20. Risk factors of stunting were determined using multivariate logistic regressions. Chi-square was used to determine the relationship between women's involvement in maize farming and the sale of maize in households and stunting. Results: The results from crop farmers revealed that being a male had an increased possibility of stunting by 2.601 times compared to being female (OR = 2.601, 95% CI; 1.302, 5.196). Children aged 13-18 months (OR = 2.820, 95% CI; 1.295, 6.143) and 19-23 months (OR= 4.999, 95% CI; 1.829, 13.664) increased the likelihood of stunting by 2.820 and 4.999 times respectively compared to children aged 6-12 months. Mothers with no formal education augmented the chance of being stunted by 2.212 times compared to mothers with primary education (OR = 2.212, 95% CI; 1.019, 4.799). There is a decreasing probability of children being stunted as time spent on cooking between 21 and 30 hours per week among agro-pastoralist women. Crop farmer women who collected firewood between 11 and 15 hours per week had a 0.205 times lower risk of increasing stunting. Children's age, gender, and mother's level of education all increased the likelihood of stunting among crop farmers. Cooking time (21-30 hours per week) among agro-pastoralists and collection of firewood (11-15 hours per week) among crop farmers had a lower risk of increasing the likelihood of stunting. Nutritional interventions should address maternal education, proper child care, and feeding practices.
Toward environmental sustainability: a comparative analysis between Brazil and India
(Aalborg University, 2015) Andrade, Daniel Caixeta; Bhar, Soumyajit; Ancelm, Gudila
This article performs a comparative analysis between Brazil and India in terms of environmental sustainability over the period 1970 to 2008. To do so, we employed the following selected indicators: the domestic material consumption, the material intensity, the metabolic rate, the ecological footprint and bio-capacity, the ecological deficit/surplus and the adjusted net savings. Prior to this comparison exercise, we briefly describe the socioeconomic performance over the study period, indicating important changes in the economic and social dimensions in both countries, which certainly affected the environmental domain. The indicators utilised in this study suggest that India is performing better than Brazil in a sustainability point of view, with the ecological deficit/surplus indicator as an exception. We also performed a statistical analysis to measure the correlation between economic growth and the selected sustainability indicators. The results revalidate the fact that there is a major compromise, across economies, between economic development and sustainability of an economy. Although through some detailed intra-economic analysis it is shown that Brazil’s economy is decarbonizing in the study period, however on a comparative scale Brazil’s economy is leaving more externality of its environment. It is also highlighted that policy shifts do not reflect to that extent in sustainability indicators as the stage of development of an economy does. Finally a projection based analysis revealed that India will be achieving the same level of human development as Brazil at a much lower cost of environmental externality. From this it can be established that Indian economy is more sustainable that Brazil’s one. As final remarks, some policy recommendations are emphasized in the light of this analysis.
Fit and style modification of apparel using pattern drafting and free-hand cutting among informal dressmakers and tailors
(IPRJB, 2020) Bakker-Edoh, Dymphna; Kassah, Johnson Kofi; Kereth, Gudila Ancelm; Oigo, Elizabeth B.; Mburugu, Keren G.
Purpose: To assess the fit and style modification of apparel using pattern drafting and free-hand cutting among informal dressmakers and tailors. Methodology: Design and style modification were measured using a composite score based on the observation checklist of the finished products of apparel made from both free-hand and pattern drafting technique. There was an agreement between the respondents and the researcher on a common style. One of the styles was to check for fit and others for fit and style modification respectively. The finished product from both methods was analyzed on live models to check on the stitches and seam, arrangement of fullness, application of fastenings, arrangements and position of motifs in the fabric as well as the design details that conform to fit standard based on the checklist used by judges. Special areas of apparel that add up to total fit were identified and assessed. These special areas were the most highly ranked and scored by the judges. Results: sheath dresses constructed using both pattern drafting and free-hand cutting were worn by models for evaluation by the judges. All the five judges indicated that the neckline of the sheath dress made with pattern drafting had no problem giving it a 100% score. The shoulder line of the sheath dress made with free-hand cutting was considered as too long by four (80%) out of the five judges. The implication is that the shoulder line of the sheath dress made with pattern drafting was accepted to be the best. The bust of the sheath dress of both methods was seen to be good by the judges, one (20%) indicated that the sheath dress made with pattern drafting was too tight while another one (20%) also claimed it was too loose with respect to the sheath dress made with free-hand cutting. There was a vast difference in the nape to waist section of the sheath dress made with free-hand cutting as compared to that of the pattern drafting resulting to ill-fitting that amounted to puckering at the back of the dress made with free-hand cutting. Unique Contribution to theory, practice and policy: Additionally, an apparel made using Free-hand cutting apparel was superior in areas such as the length of the apparel and fixing of fasteners as compared with pattern drafted apparel. The study therefore recommended the need to develop and train pattern drafting since it bring success into the apparel construction industry and over-reliance on free-hand cutting could keep some dressmakers and tailors out of business with time.
Behavioral determinants associated with customers’ choice of apparel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(International Federation of Home Economics, 2022) Kereth, Gudila; Bosibori, E.; Kaindi Isika, J.; Kimaro, Michael H.
Understanding customer decisions on apparel choice together with the underlying behavioral determinants (cultural, social, personal and psychological) is essential in apparel business industry. In Tanzania, studies on behavioral determinants of customers’ choice of imported and locally made apparel are scarce. The purpose of this study was to assess the behavioral determinants that influence customers’ choice of apparel. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted in this study. A systematic randomly sampling technique was used to collect information from 420 customers while purposively sampling technique was applied to select second-hand apparel markets (n = 3); shopping malls (n = 10), boutiques and apparel shops (n = 14) and locally made apparel shops (n = 16) in Dar es Salaam. Generalized Linear Model with binomial and Poisson error distributions were used for the statistical analyses, and p-value of 0.05 or lower was considered significant. Quantity, expenditure of apparel, gender, income, and type of outlets were found to be significant determinants of apparel choice. Choice probability of apparel increased to locally made apparel with an increased in expenditure and being female, while the probability of apparel choice decreased from locally made apparel to imported apparel with an increased in quantity, income, and shopping outlets. Social, personal and psychological determinants as well as cultural determinants were significantly related to the quantity and frequency of purchasing apparel respectively on apparel choice. In conclusion, the quantity and expenditure of apparel, gender, income, types of outlets drive customers on the apparel choice. Social, personal, psychological and cultural determinants were associated to the quantity and frequency of purchasing apparel in that order that retailers need to take them into account when developing business strategies. This study provided additional knowledge on the existing customer’s apparel choice in Tanzania. Understanding customer behavior and the types of outlets required in the area may benefit apparel marketers.
Assessment of women’s productive roles in household food and income and associated factors in Kilindi district, Tanzania
(INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS), 2024) Hillary, Mtagulwa Mzee; Mbwana, Hadijah Ally
Women make up half of the global workforce in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors to provide household food and income. The study aimed to examine women's productive roles in household food and income in the 2019/20 and 2020/21 cropping seasons and associated factors among crop farmers and agro- pastoralists in Kilindi District, Tanzania. A structured questionnaire was used in a cross-sectional survey involving 209 crop farmers and 136 agro-pastoralist women, who were selected through multistage random sampling. The data was analysed using IBM SPSS version 20. The factors associated with women’s productive roles in household food and income were determined by using linear regression and multivariate ordinal logistic regression, respectively. Significance was considered at 5% (P≤0.05). The findings revealed that 40.0% of agro- pastoralists and 44.2% of crop farmer women in the 2020/21 cropping season produced 5–15 sacks of maize. About 10% of both agro-pastoralist and crop farmer women in 2019/20 cropping season earned more than Tsh. 200,000. Women with no formal education among crop farmers (AOR = 2.601, p = 0.023) increased their household incomes two times compared to women with primary education. Women who owned land among agro-pastoralists (AOR = 7.845, p = 0.025) increased household incomes seven times compared to women who did not own land. The age of female crop farmers (p = 0.045) decreased their contribution to the household's food production. Women face challenges in maize farming to support household food and income. This study suggests that women should have access to land, education, credit, and farming technology.
Multifaceted challenges and adaptive coping strategies among pregnant university students in Tanzania: empirical evidence for institutional policy reform
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2026) Kereth, Gudila A.; Byanjweli, Lilias H.; Matanya, Angelindisi C.
Pregnancy among university students in sub-Saharan Africa remains an underaddressed crisis, threatening educational equity, mental health, and academic retention. This study examined the academic, personal, social, emotional, and financial challenges faced by pregnant students, their coping strategies, and the adequacy of university support systems in public universities in Morogoro region, Tanzania. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, using structured questionnaires administered to 222 pregnant or recently pregnant students selected via purposive sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Kruskal–Wallis tests, ordinal logistic regression, and chi-square tests. Results revealed that 60.4% of participants were aged 18–24 years, 49.6% were in their first year of study, 61.7% were unmarried, and 76.2% reported a monthly income below 60 USD. Academic challenges were severe: 72.9% reported difficulty attending lectures and meeting deadlines, and 64.9% had considered dropping out or taking a study break. Personal challenges were dominated by time management difficulties, with older students and those who already had children reporting significantly greater burdens (p < 0.001). Social and emotional challenges were pervasive, with 83.8% experiencing stigma from peers or lecturers and 71.6% reporting emotional distress. Coping strategies centered on peer support (76.1%), time management (52.2%), and health prioritization (48.2%). Although 71.6% received some staff support, institutional responses remained fragmented: only 49.6% received academic accommodations and 31.5% accessed health or counseling services. Students demanded flexible academic timetables (60.4%), enhanced maternity support (31.1%), and stigma-reduction awareness programs (9.5%). Empirically, this study provides the first ordinal logistic regression-based evidence from Tanzania linking demographic vulnerabilities (young age, first-year status, pre-existing children) to higher academic and personal challenge scores. Policy contributions include a clear mandate for universities to move beyond passive support toward enforceable flexible scheduling, on-campus maternal health services, and anti-stigma campaigns. We recommend that Tanzania’s Ministry of Education mandate pregnancy-inclusive academic policies, establish campus-based childcare and counseling, and integrate awareness training for lecturers and peers to foster retention, well-being, and educational justice for pregnant students.
Meeting fundamental needs of street children in resource-limited settings: a pragmatic evaluation of NGO interventions in Geita, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2026) Gowele, Victoria F.; Kereth, Gudila
Street children remain one of the most vulnerable yet underserved populations in sub-Saharan Africa, yet evidence on the effectiveness of non-governmental organisation (NGO) interventions in resource-limited settings remains fragmented. This study pragmatically evaluated the role of NGOs in addressing the fundamental needs of street children in Geita, Tanzania, a gold-mining region with high child orphanhood rates (10.5%) and poverty prevalence. Using a cross- sectional design, data were collected from 180 staff across five purposively selected NGOs. Descriptive statistics, Kruskal- Wallis H tests, and chi-square analyses were employed to assess need prioritisation, health programme delivery, and operational challenges. Results revealed a mature but experienced workforce (67.8% with 2–3 years’ experience), with food ranked as the highest-priority need, followed by shelter and clothing, while education and psychosocial care were significantly deprioritised (χ² = 340.710, p < 0.001). Vaccination (40%) and screening/diagnosis (38.9%) dominated health programmes, but first aid and nutrition-specific interventions were markedly underprovided (χ² = 33.284, p < 0.001). Critically, 46.1% of NGOs identified chronic funding shortages as the primary barrier, alongside operational difficulties (33.9%), yet 65% reported having overcome major challenges, demonstrating notable resilience. This study provides three key contributions: empirically, it quantifies disparities in need prioritisation and health service coverage among NGOs; methodologically, it offers a replicable comparative framework for evaluating street-child interventions; and practically, it underscores that without standardised essential service packages and diversified funding mechanisms, NGOs risk perpetuating inequities. We conclude that while NGOs deliver life-saving basic provisions, the systematic neglect of education and psychosocial support undermines long-term reintegration. Consequently, we recommend: (i) mandatory minimum service standards for NGOs receiving public or donor funding; (ii) establishment of multi-stakeholder coordination platforms to reduce duplication and funding fragmentation; and (iii) targeted capacity-building in fundraising and financial sustainability. Addressing these structural gaps is essential to transform NGO efforts from episodic charity into sustainable, rights-based support for street children.
Assessment of post-harvest handling practices: knowledge and losses of fruits in Bagamoyo district of Tanzania
(IISTE, 2013) Kereth, Gudila A.; Lyimo, Monica; Mbwana, Hadijah A.; Mongi, Richard J.; Ruhembe, Carolyne C.
The harvesting practices, knowledge and post-harvest losses of fruits along the supply chain in Bagamoyo District were investigated. 142 farmers, 50 retailers and 10 wholesalers dealing with fruits were involved in the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. The results indicate that, 90.14% of the respondents harvested fruits when they are just ripe and the great market losses were reported to occur due to rotting (microbial) at 63%, physiological at 20% and 17% by insects and rodents. Along the supply chain, mechanical damage was observed to be the major type of loss during harvesting (79%) and transportation (56%) while microbial damage was observed by majority (67%) during marketing. Poor infrastructure from farm to the market was observed to account for large percentage of losses in the market. The findings also shows that all farmers (100%) interviewed have no knowledge on post-harvest losses and management. In the view of the findings, it can be concluded that, post-harvest handling practices and knowledge of stakeholders involved in fruit sub sector in the country are not good enough to prevent the losses. It is therefore imperative to improve educational knowledge, skills and fruits quality from the field to reduce post-harvest losses.
A hub of food amid of nutrition insecurities: exploring food and nutrition situations in Rural Areas of Tanzania
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2023-09-14) Mbwana A.; Bundala N.
A cross sectional study was conducted and involved 351 households from two regions where participants were mother/caregiver-child pairs. This paper discloses the challenges and opportunities of food and nutrition situations in the areas using lessons from Morogoro and Dodoma regions, Tanzania. Data were collected through an inventory food production questionnaire, focus group discussions, observation and documentation on preparation, cooking and consumption practices. The study revealed several opportunities regarding food and nutrition situations including; availability of arable land for cultivation of diverse crops, ownership of arable land by 75% of study population, and diverse crop production, where about 80% of households cultivate 2-3 food crops. In addition, existence of manpower for agriculture production was evidenced by household composition of more than 3 adults capable of participating in agriculture production. Seasonal availability of fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables was also among the opportunities noted. Despite the documented opportunities, 82% of households participated in subsistence farming and depended on rain fed agriculture, this led to low productivity per acre and seasonal scarcity of foods. Poor nutrition status of children and women coupled by frequent illnesses was noted. Prevalence of stunting was 40.5% and underweight was 14.5%, prevalence of overweight for women was also high in the villages. Furthermore, limited skills on food preparations and sub-optimal dietary practices such as low dietary diversity, low consumption of fruits and animal source foods prevailed in the areas. The importance of addressing the challenges is highlighted including promoting diversified and sustainable agriculture by educating farmers on the importance of producing, consuming and sustaining diversified diets. Also, increasing nutrition awareness on the importance of good nutrition for economic development and productive life.
Anthropometrics, hemoglobin status and dietary micronutrient intake among Tanzanian and Mozambican pigeon pea farmers
(Nutrients, 2022-07-15) Eleraky Laila; Ramula Issa; Mbwana Hadija; Rybak Constance; Jan Frank; Stuetz Wolfgang
Inadequate consumption of micronutrient-dense and protein-rich foods such as vegetables, legumes and meat is an important contributing cause for anemia and deficiencies of vitamin A and iron in rural communities of Tanzania and Mozambique. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the nutritional status (anthropometrics and hemoglobin) and diets in particular micronutrient intake of female and male pigeon pea farmers from Lindi, Tanzania, and Gurué, the Zambézia province of Mozambique. A total of 1526 farmers (669 from Tanzania, 857 from Mozambique) were studied, of whom 16% were overweight and 35% were anemic. The highest prevalence of overweight and anemia, at 35% and 48%, was observed in Tanzanian and Mozambican women, respectively. Overall, only a small proportion of women and men reached the recommended daily dietary intake of vitamin A (10%), iron (51%) and zinc (44%). Multiple regression models revealed that dark green leafy vegetables (DGLVs) highly predicted vitamin A intake, whereas legumes in Tanzania and starchy plants in Mozambique were actually the dominant sources of vitamin A. Cereals covered over half of the iron and the zinc intake in both countries. An increased consumption of micronutrient-rich DGLVs and legumes, while reducing the high amounts of refined maize or polished rice, is suggested to counteract the high prevalence of anemia and overweight among smallholder farmers in East and South Eastern Africa.
Fuel scarcity or household wealth? Assessing the drivers of cooking energy consumption patterns in rural areas in East Africa
(Forests, Trees and Livelihoods, 2022) Matavel Custodio Efraim; Hoffmann Harry; Hafner Johannes Michael; Kipkulei Harison Kiplagat; Uckert Götz; Kaingo Jacob; Salavessa João; Mbwana Hadijah A.; Ramula Issa; Novela Leonel Silva; Sieber Stefan; Rybak Constance
Rural households in Tanzania and Mozambique depend mainly on charcoal, firewood and other traditional fuels, such as cow dung or agriculture by-products, to cook. Simultaneously, fuel scarcity is an important phenomenon that leads households to apply coping strategies such as reducing the number of meals or increasing walking distance to collect firewood. Despite the well-known negative health, economic and potential ecologic impacts, the transition away from solid biomass energy sources is not expected in the short run. Thus, understanding the patterns of biomass energy consumption is essential to allow sustainable development in the household cooking sector. In this study, we evaluated the influence of wealth status and fuelwood scarcity on household energy choices in four villages with case study sites in Mozambique and Tanzania. The fuel usage patterns are consistent with the ‘energy stacking’ model as, despite an increase in the consumption of charcoal, firewood remains the principal cooking fuel. Wealth does not necessarily result in a transition toward cleaner fuels, nor does scarcity result in the use of other forms of traditional bioenergy. We suggest the promotion of fuel reduction strategies such as improved cookstoves or the implementation of on-farm trees to reduce the pressure on forests.
Governing COVID‑19: analyzing the effects of policy responses on food systems in Tanzania
(Agriculture & food security, 2022) Mugabe Paschal A.; Renkamp Theresa M.; Rybak Constance; Mbwana Hadija; Gordon Chris; Sieber Stefan; Löhr Katharina
Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic increased debates on global public health concerns. From early 2020 to 2022, globally, life was upended in the wake of the pandemic. Industries of all kinds were forced to rapidly changed how they work, including agriculture. Particularly for smallholder farmers in developing countries, the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with climate change effects, negatively affected their livelihoods. Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 is unrealistic if immediate efforts are not made to address the existential threats facing smallholder farmers. This study analyzes COVID-19 governance and policy responses, examining its effects on smallholder farmers in the south and east of Tanzania using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Results: Findings show that mobility restrictions imposed by other countries and fears of the Tanzanian people leading to voluntary isolation resulted in an amended structure of farmers’ markets: Reductions in exports, imports and in the purchasing power of the local people followed. Food security was diminished as food availability on the market level was reduced due to mobility restrictions. The impact of COVID-19 resulted in more than 85% of smallholder farmers experiencing an income reduction, thus also increasing the pre-existing vulnerability of these communities. Findings show that farms producing non-exported crops had less severe income reductions and could cope better. The results indicate that only 20% of smallholder farmers started using digital information technology to gather information since physical movements were restricted. Access to technology remained limited in rural areas. Even during the COVID-19 crises, farmers’ concerns about the vulnerability of their food systems include non-COVID-19 causes, such as climate change. Conclusions: Although Tanzania did not impose a total lockdown, the country was affected by COVID-19, partly via policies of other countries. Impacts included: (i) a decline in local markets as smallholder farmers had fewer trading partners from neighboring states; (ii) a loss of employment opportunities due to the absence of both local and external trade; (iii) reductions of farm output and income; (iv) a lack of agricultural inputs (fertilizer etc.) that are usually imported; (v) fear to continue farming activities due to news about COVID-19 spreading; and (vi) reduction of work efficiency because of a lack of social gathering due to voluntary isolation. While COVID-19 compelled policymakers to make urgent decisions to ensure stable food supply chains, the fundamental task is to address these immediate disruptions while also investing in the long-term goal of a resilient, sustainable, and productive global food system. This can be achieved by adopting a policy package that includes investments in technological development, access to small long-term loans, and regulatory reforms, with which governments can create conditions supporting productive, sustainable, and resilient food systems that can withstand future shocks
Development and validation of a nutrition training package for rural women farmers in Tanzania: A pilot study
(International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, 2022-05-12) Mbwana Hadijah A; Masanja Hope; Ally Kudra; Mwakatobe Lufingo
Undernutrition continues to inflict significant social, health and economic consequences in developing countries, Tanzania inclusive. Lack of nutrition knowledge among rural women who are the main caregivers of children and family at large is reflected in the poor nutritional status and compromised health in rural areas. This study aimed to develop and pilot a nutrition training package which is contextually and culturally specific for rural women farmers in Tanzania in order to improve their knowledge, attitudes, skills and practices for positive behaviour change and optimum nutrition practices. The study was conducted in five villages from the semi-arid Dodoma region in Tanzania. A total sample size of 660 households/ women was involved in the study. The development of nutrition education materials started by conceptualization process, where factors affecting nutrition status were drawn from the baseline information. A set of five target behaviours were prioritized for intervention development. These included: exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding, diet diversification, maternal nutrition, food processing at household level and general hygiene. The training materials were in pictorial form to enable even the illiterate ones to be included. Analyses were conducted to compare the baseline with after pilot results. Results showed that there were statistically significant mean increases in general nutrition knowledge. Dietary diversity and practices improved after the pilot study. There was a clear indication that the training packages were well packed and messages given were getting across and the women could change their practices. All of the participants of the pilot study agreed that the training equipped them with enough information to efficiently incorporate nutrition issues into their future practices. The nutrition education program was found to have improved household nutrition practices in a relatively short time, in particular, nutrition knowledge and food diversity in the piloting group. Future studies may benefit from using this training material to educate rural women farmers. This study is a good starting point for creating a community of women in rural areas that is knowledgeable and with nutrition sensitive practices that will help to prevent undernutrition problems in the future
Secondary school food environment and purchase choices of adolescents in Mbeya city
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2024) Kamwela, Mercy; Mbwana, Hadijah; Jumbe, Teresia
Background: Increasing levels of overweight and obesity among adolescents are quite alarming worldwide. Among the depicted causes is poor diet, in which the food environment plays a major role in contributing. Still, little is known about adolescents and the school food environment they are exposed to in Tanzania. Objective: This study aimed to explore the secondary school food environment and document food and drink mostly purchased by secondary school adolescents Methodology: This cross-sectional study involved 8 secondary schools in Mbeya City, 384 secondary school adolescents and 35 food outlets. Aspects of the food environment studied were under the external domain, food availability, price and promotion and policy and guideline. Personal domain: accessibility, affordability and desirability. Direct observation was used in food outlets with the help of an observation tool adopted from the Nutrition Environment Measure Survey. Structured interviews were done with the school administrators or teachers responsible for nutrition issues in school with the help of a questionnaire designed based on WHO Nutrition Friendly Schools Initiative. Also, a student purchased a recall questionnaire designed based on the Nutrition Environment Measure Survey, which also helped identify the adolescents' demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression were used to establish prevalences and associations between variables. Results: Most available food outlets outside the school were retail shops and canteens inside the schools. The foods most purchased by adolescents are sweets, fried snacks, and sugar- sweetened beverages. Most adolescents purchase their food and drinks in school shops and canteens. Cereal-based foods are most available, while fruit and vegetables are least available inside and outside school. Adolescents care most about taste and least about nutrition and weight control while purchasing food and drinks. Demographic characteristics like age, level of education, and the type of school adolescents attend are associated with purchasing certain foods. Conclusion: Secondary schools have weak policies and guidelines on the food environment, and they are filled with ultra-processed foods, fried snacks, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Adolescents respond to their environment by purchasing what is most available. Adolescents’ responses depend on their age and the school type, either public or private. This situation calls for effective planning and interventions from the national to the institutional/school levels to ensure a nutrition-enabling environment is created in secondary schools.
Comparative analysis of the use of pattern drafting and free hand cutting methods among tailors and apprentices in Kenya and Ghana
(Cari Journals, 2021) Bakker-Edoh, Dymphna; Kassah, Johnson Kofi; Kereth, Gudila Ancelm; Oigo, Elizabeth B.; Mburugu, Keren G.
Purpose: The study aimed at evaluating comparative analysis of the use of pattern drafting and free hand cutting methods among tailors and apprentices in Kenya and Ghana. Methodology: For this research, the study used a cross-sectional descriptive design. The target population was tailors in Githurai, Kenya and Dwa Kitiwam, Koforidua, Ghana. A sample was drawn randomly from this sampling frame which comprised of 30 tailors, with 15 being from Githurai, Kenya and 15 from Dwa Kitiwam, Koforidua, Ghana. This study further used questionnaires to collect primary data. Data obtained from the field was coded and filtered and systematically sorted according to the questionnaire objects using frequency distributions and proportions. With the aid of the Social Science Statistical Package (SPSS) version 26, the researchers used both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the results. Results: Ghana is more inclined to pattern drafting than free hand cutting compared to Kenyan tailors who are inclined to free hand cutting as much as pattern drafting. Proving that the individuals vary in their views on free-hand cutting and pattern drafting revealed that the tendency of dressmakers and tailors for free-hand cutting was affected by the technique with which they were educated and the simplicity associated with free-hand cutting processes. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Instructors should cultivate the utilization of pattern drawing to acquire a deeper understanding of the skills of pattern drafting.
Apprentices perception on apparel fit made with pattern drafting and free-hand cutting methods
(International Peer Reviewed Journal and Book Publishing, 2021) Bakker-Edoh, Dymphna; Kassah, Johnson Kofi; Kereth, Gudila Ancelm; Oigo, Elizabeth B.; Mburugu, Keren G.
Purpose: To assess the perceptions of apprentices on apparel fit made with pattern drafting and free-hand cutting methods. Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey was considered adequate for this study as it has the advantage of soliciting respondent’s views on the nature of the situation as it existed at the time of a study. The design is an efficient way of collecting information of a large group of people within a short time using questionnaires. The survey design was deemed appropriate for this study as it has the advantage of seeking the views of informal dressmakers and tailors on the use of pattern drafting and free-hand cutting in apparel construction. It allowed for the use of both quantitative and qualitative techniques in the study. This paved way for better understanding of a phenomenon under study. The use of these methods offered the opportunity to have in-depth information and also the weakness in one method is compensated for by the strength in another method. Results: respondents agreed that using free-hand cutting method of apparel construction has certain limitations such as its inability to neither produce a perfect fit, takes care of fullness nor bring out the curves among others. Less than one third of the respondents were of the view that free-hand cutting contributed to perfect fit of apparel. Apprentices held a positive view about the use of pattern drafting as providing better fit of apparel as compared to free-hand cutting. It was summed that although free-hand cutting was the main training method used, some styles, because of their unique features, could only be cut with pattern and comes out better than free- hand cutting. Unique Contribution to theory, practice and policy: The implication is that given the opportunity, training and necessary materials, these apprentices would start using more of pattern drafting than free-hand cutting. Therefore, the study recommended that the IDTA increase the opportunities for pattern drafting training, which will lead to more production of better apparel fit. The study recommended that the IDTA should enact a policy to incorporate pattern drafting and other methods of apparel construction into the training curriculum of apprentices to develop an interest in the use of these methods right from the onset. Additionally, the study suggested that future studies to focus on the factors that contribute to the dropouts during the apprenticeship period.
A hidden potential of pigeon peas cultivation practices to curb household food insecurity in rural areas of eastern southern Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2025) Mbwana, H.A; Kaingo, J.
Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) is a tropical legume with significant potential for enhancing food security and nutrition, particularly in semi-arid regions. This study assessed the impact of pigeon pea cultivation practices on household food security, dietary diversity, and economic wellbeing in two villages, Mibure (Ruangwa) and Mitumbati (Nachingwea), in the Lindi region of Tanzania. The study involved 300 farming households, with data collected through household surveys focusing on crop production practices, food availability, dietary diversity, and disposable crop income. Two major models were employed: (i) the direct effects of pigeon pea cultivation methods on household wellbeing indicators (adequate household food availability, household dietary diversity, disposable crop income, and calorie and protein production) and (ii) the effects of crop income and calorie production on adequate food availability and dietary diversity. Results revealed that 72% of maize-growing smallholders also grew pigeon peas, along with other legumes like beans and cowpeas. Intercropping was the predominant cropping practice, with over 50% of households using cereal-legume intercropping, while crop rotation was less common. Intercropping pigeon peas with cereals was significantly associated with increased household food availability and dietary diversity. Households practicing intercropping achieved higher disposable crop income and produced more calories and protein, contributing to improved food security and dietary outcomes. The study concludes that pigeon pea intercropping is an effective strategy for enhancing food and nutrition security in semi-arid regions of Tanzania. The results suggest that promoting legume-based intercropping systems could improve household food availability, dietary diversity, and economic wellbeing.

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